Word for something that "helps solve a problem"

Question

This is the sentence I'm writing

The system requires a stiff solver and appropriate ______, such as the Jacobian Matrix Pattern

I've been thinking of workarounds, but the example given is not something that avoids the problem or finds an alternate solution, but it helps in solving the original problem, making it much faster. They are not needed, but they help a great deal. Also Pattern is not the only one of these.

devices does not sound right either, because it evokes a physical object.

Maybe aids, but it is more related to people or humanitarian causes.

Is there a single word to express a group of (non-physical) things that help you reach a solution?

Answer 1

The word tool is often used metaphorically to refer to methods and software. For instance, a word processor is a common tool of writers and editors. And the Socratic Method is a tool employed by teachers.

See these definitions in ODO:

1.1 A thing used in an occupation or pursuit:
computers are an essential tool
the ability to write clearly is a tool of the trade

1.3 Computing: A piece of software that carries out a particular function, typically creating or modifying another program.

Answer 2

Although you have discounted it, I do think that device would work well here, perhaps with a qualifying, attributive adjective.

Likewise, I think that, whilst tool is used more commonly used in such circumstances, aid is also appropriate and would convey your meaning clearly.

The system requires a stiff solver and appropriate algorithmic device, such as the Jacobian Matrix Pattern.

A numerical device such as the Jacobian Matrix Pattern greatly assists in solving the problem.

An appropriate algorithmic device, such as the Jacobian Matrix Pattern, is an invaluable aid for computing the solution.

Answer 3

Might you consider using an adverb more specific to the function you are trying to describe? Perhaps "appropriate" is slightly too non-specific. However, if that is the word which suits your fancy, I might consider "application" to fill in your blank for these three reasons:

1. A little alliteration never hurts to smooth over awkward meanings in sentences because the reader's creativity gets engaged. Literary devices are a "stuck" writer's best friend.
2. The term "application" implies a quality of particularity, although it also leaves room for a broader sense of usage.
3. "Application" also seems to fit your conditional clause here:

"...it helps in solving the original problem, making it much faster. They are not needed, but they help a great deal."

Best of luck! I look forward to reading your outcome. =)

Answer 4

How about "process"? (from Webster: a series of actions that lead to a particular result)

Answer 5

I'd suggest troubleshooter. I was surprised to discover that it apparently describes a person, according to Merriam-Webster.

However, I think I've seen it applied to non-human entities. Check out Wikipedia's article "Troubleshooting" for more information.

On Edit: On second thought, I guess troubleshooting isn't exactly the same as problem solving, so this probably won't work. How about analyzer?

Answer 6

The system requires a stiff solver and appropriate models, such as the Jacobian Matrix Pattern.

• (n), a hypothetical description of a complex entity or process

• “the computer program was based on a model of the circulatory and respiratory systems”.(vocab.com/suggested in comments, too)